NLC Demands Fuel Price Cut, New Minimum Wage Talks

The Nigeria Labour Congress has pressed the Federal Government to slash petrol prices, award workers a nationwide pay increase, and enter negotiations for an updated national minimum wage. The demands were issued in a statement released on the nation's Independence Day by NLC President Joe Ajaero on September 30, signalling labour's concerns over economic hardship.

The union anchored its position on what it characterised as a deepening cost-of-living crisis. Workers, according to the NLC, are struggling as inflation eats into the purchasing power of their salaries.

The rising cost of fuel has created a domino effect—driving up prices for food, transportation, school fees, and housing—leaving households unable to meet basic needs. Ajaero's statement indicated that the squeeze on workers' finances has become acute enough to warrant immediate government intervention.

The labour body framed its three-part demand as essential to restoring economic relief to Nigerians. The timing of the call—on Independence Day—underscored the union's intent to place workers' welfare at the centre of national conversation.

The NLC has historically used public platforms and holiday statements to amplify labour demands when wage negotiations stall. This appeal marks a formal opening of dialogue on compensation and fuel policy, though the sources did not specify whether government had responded or set a timeline for talks on the minimum wage or fuel pricing.